Best Football Equipment Bags: Top Picks & Buying Guide

Choosing the right football equipment bag is crucial for any player, ensuring gear is organized, protected, and easily transported. A quality bag can withstand the rigors of the season, keeping helmets, pads, cleats, and other essentials in top condition. This guide explores the best football equipment bags available, helping you make an informed decision for your needs.

Top Football Equipment Bags: Our Recommendations

Selecting the ideal football equipment bag involves considering size, durability, features, and price. Our recommendations cover a range of options, from spacious bags for comprehensive gear storage to more compact designs for lighter loads, ensuring every player finds a suitable match.

Best Overall: The BRG Sports Equipment Bag

The BRG Sports Equipment Bag stands out as the best overall choice due to its exceptional durability, spaciousness, and thoughtful design. This bag is constructed from heavy-duty, water-resistant material, ensuring it can withstand the wear and tear of a demanding football season while protecting your valuable equipment from the elements. With a large main compartment and multiple specialized pockets, the BRG bag offers ample storage for helmets, shoulder pads, cleats, and other essential gear.

Furthermore, the BRG Sports Equipment Bag features reinforced stitching and heavy-duty zippers, enhancing its longevity and reliability. The bag's comfortable shoulder straps and padded handles make it easy to carry, even when fully loaded. Its ventilation system promotes airflow, preventing moisture buildup and odor. Considering its robust construction, generous storage capacity, and user-friendly design, the BRG Sports Equipment Bag is an excellent investment for football players of all levels. For more details, you can visit the manufacturer's website or check out reviews on major sports retailers like Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods.

Best Value: The Athletico Football Equipment Bag

The Athletico Football Equipment Bag offers an unbeatable combination of quality and affordability, making it the best value choice for budget-conscious players. Despite its lower price point, this bag doesn't compromise on essential features and durability. Constructed from durable, weather-resistant fabric, the Athletico bag provides ample protection for your gear in various conditions. Its large main compartment can easily accommodate a helmet, pads, and other equipment, while multiple smaller pockets offer convenient storage for accessories like gloves, mouthguards, and personal items.

The Athletico Football Equipment Bag also includes practical features such as ventilation grommets to keep your gear fresh and padded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying. The reinforced handles add to its durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of regular use. This bag is a standout option for players seeking a reliable and functional equipment bag without breaking the bank. You can find the Athletico Football Equipment Bag at various online retailers, including Walmart, where it is frequently offered at competitive prices.

Best for Youth Players: The Under Armour Undeniable Duffel 4.0

The Under Armour Undeniable Duffel 4.0 is the best choice for youth players, offering a perfect blend of size, durability, and comfort. This duffel bag is designed with younger athletes in mind, featuring a compact yet spacious design that can accommodate essential gear without being too bulky or cumbersome. Constructed from Under Armour's durable and water-resistant materials, the Undeniable Duffel 4.0 ensures that equipment stays protected from the elements.

The bag's main compartment provides ample space for pads, cleats, and other necessary items, while multiple zippered pockets offer convenient storage for smaller accessories and personal belongings. The padded shoulder strap and grab handles make it easy for young players to carry, and the ventilated design helps to keep gear fresh. The Under Armour Undeniable Duffel 4.0 is a reliable and practical option for youth football players, providing the durability and functionality needed for a successful season. Available at Under Armour's official website and other sports retailers.

Key Features to Consider in a Football Equipment Bag

Choosing the right football equipment bag involves carefully evaluating several key features to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences. The ideal bag should offer the right balance of size, durability, storage options, and comfort.

Size and Capacity

When selecting a football equipment bag, size and capacity are critical considerations. The bag should be large enough to accommodate all your essential gear, including a helmet, shoulder pads, cleats, and other protective equipment. A bag that is too small will leave you struggling to fit everything, while an excessively large bag can be cumbersome and difficult to carry.

Consider the volume of gear you typically carry to practices and games. If you need to transport a full set of equipment, including extra clothing and accessories, opt for a larger bag with a capacity of 7,000 cubic inches or more. For lighter loads, such as helmets and cleats, a smaller bag in the 4,000 to 6,000 cubic inch range may suffice. Ensure the bag's dimensions meet any size restrictions imposed by your team or league, and check if it fits comfortably in your vehicle's trunk or storage area. The goal is to strike a balance between spaciousness and portability, ensuring you can carry your gear efficiently and comfortably.

Durability and Material

Durability is paramount when choosing a football equipment bag, as these bags often endure harsh conditions and heavy use. The material of the bag should be robust enough to withstand the rigors of the football season, including exposure to weather, rough handling, and sharp equipment. Look for bags made from heavy-duty, water-resistant fabrics such as polyester, nylon, or tarpaulin. These materials offer excellent abrasion resistance, preventing tears and wear even with frequent use. South Padre Island In February: Weather, Things To Do & Tips

The stitching and zippers are also critical components of a durable bag. Reinforced stitching at stress points, such as handles and seams, ensures the bag can withstand heavy loads without falling apart. Heavy-duty zippers made from metal or durable plastic provide reliable closure and prevent gear from spilling out. Additionally, consider features like a reinforced bottom, which protects the bag from abrasion when placed on rough surfaces. Investing in a durable bag will not only protect your equipment but also save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements. Regularly inspect your bag for any signs of wear and tear, and address issues promptly to prolong its lifespan.

Storage and Organization

Effective storage and organization are essential features of a quality football equipment bag, enabling you to keep your gear neatly arranged and easily accessible. A well-designed bag should offer a variety of compartments and pockets to accommodate different types of equipment and accessories. The main compartment should be spacious enough to hold larger items like helmets and shoulder pads, while smaller pockets are ideal for organizing gloves, cleats, mouthguards, and personal items.

Consider bags with specialized compartments, such as ventilated pockets for cleats and wet gear, which help prevent moisture buildup and odors. Internal dividers can also be useful for separating equipment and preventing items from shifting during transport. External pockets provide quick access to frequently used items like water bottles, phones, and keys. A well-organized bag not only makes it easier to find what you need but also helps protect your equipment from damage by preventing items from rubbing against each other. When evaluating storage options, think about the specific types of gear you need to carry and choose a bag that offers the right combination of compartments and pockets to meet your needs.

Comfort and Portability

Comfort and portability are crucial factors when selecting a football equipment bag, especially if you frequently carry your gear long distances or for extended periods. The bag should be designed to distribute weight evenly and minimize strain on your shoulders and back. Look for bags with padded shoulder straps that are adjustable to fit your body size and carrying preference. A padded back panel can also enhance comfort by providing cushioning and support.

Consider the carrying options offered by the bag. Some bags feature both shoulder straps and grab handles, providing versatility in how you carry your gear. Grab handles, especially those that are reinforced and padded, make it easy to lift and maneuver the bag in tight spaces. Rolling bags with wheels and a telescoping handle offer the ultimate in portability, allowing you to transport heavy loads with minimal effort. However, rolling bags may not be suitable for all situations, such as navigating uneven terrain or stairs. Evaluate your typical carrying scenarios and choose a bag that offers the right balance of comfort and portability for your needs. Regularly adjust the straps and handles to ensure a comfortable fit, and avoid overloading the bag to prevent strain and injury.

Different Types of Football Equipment Bags

Football equipment bags come in various styles, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding the different types can help you choose the one that best suits your requirements. From traditional duffel bags to specialized designs with unique features, there's a bag for every player.

Duffel Bags

Duffel bags are a classic choice for football equipment, offering a spacious main compartment and a versatile design suitable for carrying a wide range of gear. These bags typically feature a cylindrical shape with a top-loading opening, making it easy to pack and access your equipment. Duffel bags come in various sizes, from smaller models ideal for youth players to larger versions capable of accommodating a full set of adult gear.

Many duffel bags include additional pockets and compartments for organizing smaller items like gloves, cleats, and personal belongings. Look for duffel bags made from durable, water-resistant materials such as polyester or nylon to ensure they can withstand the rigors of the football season. Padded shoulder straps and grab handles enhance comfort and portability, allowing you to carry your gear with ease. Duffel bags are a practical and affordable option for players who need a reliable and spacious equipment bag. They are particularly well-suited for those who prefer a simple, no-frills design with ample storage space.

Backpack Style Bags

Backpack-style football equipment bags offer a convenient and comfortable way to carry your gear, distributing the weight evenly across your shoulders and back. These bags are designed with multiple compartments and pockets, providing excellent organization and easy access to your equipment. Backpack-style bags are particularly well-suited for players who need to carry their gear over long distances or navigate crowded areas.

Many backpack-style bags feature dedicated compartments for helmets, cleats, and other essential items, as well as padded sleeves for electronics like laptops or tablets. Look for bags with padded shoulder straps, back panels, and sternum straps for added comfort and support. Durable, water-resistant materials ensure your gear stays protected from the elements. Backpack-style bags are a popular choice for players of all ages and levels, offering a blend of functionality, comfort, and style. They are especially beneficial for those who value hands-free carrying and efficient organization.

Rolling Equipment Bags

Rolling equipment bags are the ultimate solution for transporting heavy loads of football gear with minimal effort. These bags feature wheels and a telescoping handle, allowing you to roll your equipment like a suitcase. Rolling bags are ideal for players who need to carry a significant amount of gear, such as coaches or those with extensive equipment requirements. The wheels and handle make it easy to maneuver the bag over smooth surfaces, reducing strain on your shoulders and back.

Rolling equipment bags typically offer a spacious main compartment and multiple additional pockets for organizing your gear. Look for bags with durable wheels and a sturdy handle that can withstand heavy use. Reinforced corners and a rugged construction ensure the bag can handle the wear and tear of travel. While rolling bags offer exceptional convenience, they may not be suitable for all situations, such as navigating stairs or rough terrain. However, for players who prioritize ease of transport and minimal physical exertion, rolling equipment bags are an excellent choice. They are a popular option for those who frequently travel to games or practices and need to carry a large amount of equipment.

Brands Known for Quality Football Bags

When selecting a football equipment bag, choosing a reputable brand can provide assurance of quality and durability. Several brands are known for producing high-quality bags specifically designed for football players, offering a range of features and styles to meet different needs.

Under Armour

Under Armour is a leading brand in sports apparel and equipment, known for its innovative designs and high-performance materials. Their football equipment bags are designed to withstand the demands of the sport, offering durability, functionality, and style. Under Armour bags often feature water-resistant fabrics, reinforced stitching, and multiple compartments for organized storage.

The brand's Undeniable Duffel series is a popular choice among athletes, offering a versatile and durable option for carrying gear. Under Armour also produces backpack-style bags with dedicated compartments for helmets and cleats, providing a comfortable and convenient carrying solution. With a reputation for quality and innovation, Under Armour is a trusted brand for football players of all levels. Their bags are designed to provide long-lasting performance and protection for your valuable equipment. You can find their products at major sports retailers and online marketplaces.

Nike

Nike is a global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment, renowned for its commitment to quality and performance. Their football equipment bags are designed with the athlete in mind, offering a combination of durability, functionality, and style. Nike bags often feature innovative designs and materials, such as water-resistant fabrics and ventilated compartments. The brand's duffel bags are a popular choice, providing ample storage space and versatile carrying options.

Nike also offers backpack-style bags with specialized compartments for helmets, cleats, and other gear, ensuring organized and convenient transport. With a long-standing reputation for excellence in sports equipment, Nike is a trusted brand for football players of all ages and skill levels. Their bags are designed to withstand the rigors of the game while providing optimal comfort and functionality. You can find Nike football equipment bags at sporting goods stores and online retailers worldwide. Powerball Numbers: Last Night's Winning Numbers And More!

Adidas

Adidas is a well-known and respected brand in the sports industry, offering a wide range of athletic apparel, footwear, and equipment. Their football equipment bags are designed to meet the specific needs of players, providing durability, storage, and comfort. Adidas bags often feature rugged construction, multiple compartments, and padded straps for easy carrying.

The brand's duffel bags are a popular choice, offering ample space for helmets, pads, and other gear. Adidas also produces backpack-style bags with dedicated storage for electronics and personal items, making them a versatile option for both practice and travel. With a focus on quality and performance, Adidas is a reliable brand for football players seeking a dependable equipment bag. Their products are designed to withstand the demands of the game while providing optimal functionality and convenience. Adidas football equipment bags are available at various sporting goods stores and online retailers. Labor Day Deals At Costco: What To Expect

Tips for Maintaining Your Football Bag

Proper maintenance of your football equipment bag is essential for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring it continues to protect your gear. Regular cleaning, storage, and care will help keep your bag in top condition, season after season.

Cleaning and Storage

Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining your football equipment bag and preventing the buildup of dirt, sweat, and odors. After each practice or game, empty your bag and remove any loose dirt or debris. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces, paying attention to areas that come into contact with equipment. For tougher stains, use a mild soap solution and a soft brush to gently scrub the affected areas. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the fabric and zippers.

Allow your bag to air dry completely before storing it, as moisture can promote the growth of mold and mildew. When storing your bag, choose a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Stuffing the bag with clean towels or packing paper can help it maintain its shape and prevent creases. Regularly inspect your bag for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed seams or damaged zippers, and address these issues promptly to prevent further damage. Proper cleaning and storage will help keep your football equipment bag in optimal condition, ensuring it lasts for seasons to come.

Repairing Damage

Addressing damage to your football equipment bag promptly can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems. Regularly inspect your bag for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed seams, torn fabric, or broken zippers. Small tears and frayed seams can often be repaired with a needle and thread. Use a heavy-duty thread and a sturdy needle to stitch the damaged areas, reinforcing the seams as needed. For larger tears or holes, consider using a patch kit or taking the bag to a professional repair shop.

Broken zippers can be a common issue with equipment bags, especially those that are frequently used and heavily loaded. Try lubricating the zipper with a silicone-based lubricant or zipper wax to improve its function. If the zipper is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced by a professional. Avoid pulling or forcing a stuck zipper, as this can cause further damage. Promptly addressing damage to your football equipment bag will help extend its lifespan and ensure it continues to protect your gear effectively. Consider keeping a small repair kit on hand, including a needle, thread, zipper lubricant, and patches, to handle minor repairs as they arise.

FAQ About Football Equipment Bags

What size football bag do I need?

The size of the football bag you need depends on the amount of gear you carry. For youth players, a bag with 4,000 to 6,000 cubic inches of space may be sufficient. Adult players often require bags with 7,000 cubic inches or more to accommodate all their equipment.

How do I clean my football equipment bag?

To clean your football equipment bag, empty it and remove any loose dirt. Wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. Allow the bag to air dry completely before storing it to prevent mold and odors.

What material is best for a football equipment bag?

Durable, water-resistant materials like polyester, nylon, or tarpaulin are best for football equipment bags. These materials can withstand the wear and tear of the season and protect your gear from the elements.

How can I organize my football gear in my bag?

Use bags with multiple compartments and pockets to organize your gear. Store larger items like helmets and pads in the main compartment, and use smaller pockets for gloves, cleats, and accessories. Ventilated pockets are ideal for wet or sweaty gear.

Are rolling football equipment bags worth it?

Rolling football equipment bags are worth it if you carry a lot of gear or have to transport your bag over long distances. They reduce strain on your shoulders and back, making it easier to move heavy loads.

What are the key features to look for in a football equipment bag?

Key features to consider include size and capacity, durability, storage and organization options, and comfort and portability. Look for bags with reinforced stitching, heavy-duty zippers, and padded straps.

How do I store my football equipment bag when not in use?

Store your football equipment bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Stuffing it with clean towels or packing paper can help maintain its shape. Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing it to prevent mold and mildew.

How can I repair a tear in my football equipment bag?

Small tears can be repaired with a needle and heavy-duty thread. For larger tears, consider using a patch kit or taking the bag to a professional repair shop. Promptly addressing damage will help extend the life of your bag.

Choosing the right football equipment bag is essential for any player, and this guide provides the information needed to make an informed decision. By considering factors like size, durability, storage options, and comfort, you can select a bag that meets your specific needs and keeps your gear protected and organized throughout the season.

Photo of Robert M. Wachter

Robert M. Wachter

Professor, Medicine Chair, Department of Medicine ·

Robert M. Bob Wachter is an academic physician and author. He is on the faculty of University of California, San Francisco, where he is chairman of the Department of Medicine, the Lynne and Marc Benioff Endowed Chair in Hospital Medicine, and the Holly Smith Distinguished Professor in Science and Medicine